Bryan Rafano of St. Joseph-Metuchen to kick for Division I Wagner

When the history of St. Joseph-Metuchen football is looked back on years from now, Bryan Rafano will always be remembered as the first player from the program to play on the Division I level.

Rafano, a South River resident, has signed a letter of intent to play at Wagner College as a punting/kicking specialist.

Rafano, the recipient of this year’s Bill Denny Scholar/Athlete Award, was a four-year

Bryan Rafano

member of the St. Joseph program, which began as sub-varsity program his first two years.

In those two varsity seaons, he recorded 10 field goals, 17 touchbacks, 62 points and a punting average of 43.0 yards. Last season, Rafano kicked six field goals, recording 40 total points.

Academically, Rafano has maintained a 3.85 grade point average and is a member of several school programs/clubs, including the Student Mentoring and Ambassador Program, the Environmental Club, the Italian Club, the Weightlifting Club and he is a student athletic trainer.

He has volunteered his time to The South River Adopt A Family Program, National Night Out Against Crime, PBA Bike Rodeo, Steven Stiller Walk/Run and has been a CYO basketball coach.

Rafano is a also a four-year member of the volleyball team.

"I look forward to continuing my career at Wagner College where I hope I will be an asset to the team. I am especially excited about being the first member from the St. Joseph football program to be playing Division I football. I am thankful for the opportunities that St. Joseph has provided me and I am proud to represent them as I move on to the next phase in my career.

“I thank Coach Molarz and the entire staff for believing in me. Coach Molarz is a great coach and he loves his players as much as he loves the game. I thank my mother and father who have been steadfast in their commitment to me ever since I stepped foot on the field as a Pop Warner football player. They have always believed in me and I love them for that."

Added Bob Molarz, who recently resigned as St. Joseph football coach, “Bryan worked tirelessly on his own for 12 months learning the fine points of his game. His best years are ahead of him because he will only get stronger.

“Bryan is a role model here and it was a pleasure to coach such a well-rounded young man.’’